The New Tri-State Defender - March 2-8, 2023

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March 2 - 8, 2023

VOL. 72, No. 9

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Talking Black AF (And Fearless) takes root at town hall

by Dr. Sybil C. Mitchell

Special to the New Tri-State Defender

Issues such as “Black self-hate,” “anti-blackness among Black leaders,” and “teaching young Black children to love themselves” sparked conversation and debate at a town hall event that featured a panel discussion called “Black AF (And Fearless).

With the death of Tyre Nichols, who was fatally bludgeoned by Black Memphis police officers and Black History Month as centering points, the town hall was held March 23 at LeMoyne-Owen College. The event was lived-streamed.

Memphis pastor the Rev. Dr. Earle Fisher, founder of UptheVote901, moderated the Black AF panel, which showcased prominent LOC alumni.

Joining Fisher, a LOC alum, was Shelby County Commission Chairman Mickell Lowery and Eureka McAfee, principal of Alcy Ball Performing Arts Elementary School in South Memphis, both LOC alums.

Dr. Andre Johnson, associate professor of Rhetoric and Media Studies at the University of Memphis, was the third panelist.

“The Black AF (And Fearless) panel discussion from the very start was going to be an unusual event,” said LOC Alumni Ena Esco-Cole.

The Rev. Dr. Earle J. Fisher moderates the Black AF (And Fearless) panel that featured LeMoyne-Owen College alums Mickell Lowery, Dr. Andre Johnson and Eureka McAfee. (Courtesy photo) “(Three) of the panelists attended LeMoyne-Owen at the same time I did. I know these … great leaders.

And Dr. Fisher? You already know what it is.

Making a splash in Whitehaven

“When Dr. Fisher introduced himself as ‘pastor of Abyssinian Baptist Church, the blackest church in Memphis’ and said, ‘we are at the blackest school in the city,’ I could understand

why the panel was named ‘Black AF.’” Fisher said the two-hour panel was

SEE AF ON PAGE 2

LEGACY

Helen Washington (Courtesy photo)

Seven years after the swimming pool closed at the YMCA in Whitehaven, a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Wednesday for the Georgette and Cato Johnson YMCA at 4727 Elvis Presley ushered in a new day. With dignitaries galore on hand, including Gov. Bill Lee, Cato Johnson, who has supported the YMCA for years, snipped the ribbon.

Johnson is chief of staff, public policy and regulatory affairs for Methodist Le Bonheur Healthcare. (Photos: Gary S. Whitlow/GSW Enterprises)

‘Black-and-proud’ Helen Washington created her space around Isaac Hayes Iconic stage dancer dead at 78

by Dr. Sybil C. Mitchell

Special to The New Tri-State Defender

A young Helen Washington seemed mesmerized by a multi-gifted, young artist, Isaac Hayes.

Hayes’ signature bald head and daring stage looks, with chains and barely-there shorts, made everyone sit up and take notice.

And, for a moment in time, Washington’s own bald head and spectacular style of dance became of integral part of the Gram-

my-award-winner’s stage show.

Washington died Feb. 23. She was 78.

Washington’s daughter, Donna Washington Kirkwood, said Washington was in the care of a skilled nursing facility to address the need for 24-hour care.

Dementia and other health challenges prompted Washington’s family to seek around-the-clock care for her. The Rainbow Rehab & Healthcare Center in Bartlett

SEE LEGACY ON PAGE 2

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The New Tri-State Defender

March 2 - 8, 2023

NEWS AF

CONTINUED FROM FRONT

Helen Washington pictured along with Isaac Hayes on the May 1972 cover of “Ebony.” (Courtesy photo)

LEGACY

CONTINUED FROM FRONT provided specialized care needed in her latter years.

Those closest to her were at her bedside when she died.

Washington, once highly recognizable and associated with Hayes’ as a gifted dancer, retired from the stage after Stax closed in the mid-1970s and opened a dance studio to teach her expressive style of dance to a new generation.

When Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated, Hayes, who considered King a friend, seemed to falter in a period of anger and militancy, unable to find his way. But in 1969, Hayes emerged from that unproductive period in his career with a new outlook, according to those who were closest to him.

Hayes’ Black Moses persona stepped onto center stage, serving up Hot-Buttered Soul.

Washington was right there, creating her own space in the music industry with Hayes.

Washington co-wrote and co-arranged, alongside Hayes, becoming a valued creative partner in Hayes’ distinctive brand of soul.

Not only did Washington write for Hayes, but she also

wrote songs for other Stax Recording artists.

A creative and ambitious Washington started out as a wardrobe assistant, designing Hayes’ signature look, draping chains across his upper body, rather than a shirt, along with dark glasses and custom briefs.

Robes also were used during the performance. Washington helped Hayes create the image of “Black Moses.”

It wasn’t long before Washington expressed a desire to be a part of the live music, stage production.

The first thing she did was shave her head as smoothly as Hayes wore his. Hayes loved the look and brought her out front with the other musicians and background singers.

Washington continued to oversee wardrobe and costuming for the show. But her primary role was front and center on stage, along with Hayes.

On stage, Washington used her petite, sultry frame, not just to dance, but to create movement — mesmerizing interpretive, Washington’s look was bold and daring, which inspired her own signature style.

Large, chunky earrings and necklace combinations, dramatic, light eye shadow and with heavy lashes were her trademarks.

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Sometimes in African garb and at other times, scantily clad, Washington influenced the style of African-American youth in the 1970s, who declared that they were “black and proud.”

Washington was immersed in the renaissance brought on by the emerging 1970s. “To be young, gifted, and black” was not just a hit song, but it became the cry of a confident and daring new generation.

Doors were opened, and affirmative action measures sought to level the playing field for “Black youth.”

Washington’s exotic look and style choices landed her on the covers of albums and posters, magazines and news features. She became almost as recognizable as Hayes.

She leaves also leaves three grandchildren, Martavis (Jessica) Kirkwood, Catrina Kirkwood, and Ashley (Steve) Brooks; four great grandchildren, Martavious Kirkwood, London Jenkins, Alaina Brooks and Layla Brooks; her sister, Jane Waye; her brother, James J. Washington; her god-sister, Vivian Renita Porter, and a host of relatives and friends.

A private service for family and close friends, by invitation only, is scheduled for March 10.

the beginning of important conversations and urged those conversations to continue.

“Take advantage of opportunities to have discussions of Black issues, especially at Black schools,” said Fisher. “Use Black spaces to talk about what the needs are in our communities.”

While the in-person attendance was sparse, the livestream audience extended the event’s scope, with viewers challenging and reacting to individual panelists as the discussion unfolded.

“With the death of Tyre Nichols by officers that look like him,” said Fisher, “we understood we were dealing with issues surrounding anti-blackness, even among us.”

Johnson said one thing parents, teachers and caring adults must do is talk to young children about loving themselves and their “blackness.”

Fisher concurred, saying “black spaces” must be used to “educate Black kids” and prepare them with conversations they need to have.

McAfee was asked how the school prepared for conversations surrounding the Tyre Nichols case.

“We were briefed by the district on how to discuss what happened with our children,” said McAfee. “Our students are between the ages of 4 and 11. We wanted to have conversations that would help them and not hurt them.

‘We were very cognizant of their feelings. We did not bring up the subject of Tyre Nichols, but we were prepared if they asked questions. We were ready to listen if they wanted to talk about how the video made them feel.”

McAfee said with a school of 650 students — most African American and a number of Hispanic students — it is

“With the death of Tyre Nichols by officers that look like him we understood we were dealing with issues surrounding antiblackness, even among us.”

— Rev. Dr. Earle Fisher important that children are prompted at an early age to respond respectfully and properly to police officers.

Johnson said professors and teachers must be able to relevantly educate “Black students,” especially at a PWI (predominantly white institution).

“We must be able to veer away from the syllabus when real life happens,” said Johnson. “After … the Tyre Nichols video was released, there was a snow storm. Students expressed feeling frustrated because they wanted to talk; they needed to talk. They gathered at the UC (University Center at the U of M). They wanted to speak about how they felt in that moment.”

Johnson expressed his own frustration because professors wanted to respond to students and have much-needed conversations with them, but they didn’t know how to do that.

“I was like, ‘What? Are you kidding me?’ Students wanted to know how they could get involved in the social movement,” said Johnson. “So, I had to reconstitute the syllabus. Students felt like they were doing something when they were writing papers and doing research.”

Johnson continued, “But I told them, ‘Embodied protests are important as well. You ought to at least once stand on

a corner with a sign reading, Justice For Tyre.’ Everyone should be involved in embodied protest. Get out there bodily. Black bodies matter.”

Lowery said as “Black leaders,” fighting for “the Black community” means putting policies in place for policing.

“Policy won’t stop everything, but policy will let police know that there is no gray area when you break the rules,” said Lowery. “When white people saw the video, they said, ‘Oh, that’s terrible.’ But they didn’t feel obligated to do anything about it.”

Fisher lamented that some “Black leaders” want to be in leadership, but they don’t love “their people.”

“Black leaders must be ready to deal with our people who have experienced black trauma, black pain, and black death,” said Fisher. “There are anti-black feelings in some Black leaders.”

Lowery said there is a historic demographic on the Shelby County Commission.

“Eight commissioners are Black, and five are (African-American) female,” said Lowery. “That has never happened before. You have started to hear words you never heard before, such as reparations.

“We’re talking about policies that can help our community. They get pushed back on us, but we will still keep trying. We’ll just keep coming back.”

McAfee said Alcy Ball “educates the whole child.”

“We not only teach our children to love themselves and their community, we teach respect for all people,” said McAfee. “We have Hispanic students as well. Every morning, we sing the Negro National Anthem. Our children are engaged, and they come to the office because they want to participate during that time.

Education must deal with the whole child.”

The New Tri-State Defender

March 2 - 8, 2023

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PERSPECTIVE The New Tri-State Defender, March 2 - 8, 2023, Page 4

NYPD Chief of Training Juanita Holmes (left) created the “Girls Talk” program to build trust and foster mentorships between police officers and girls, with occasional special guests such as Cardi B. (Twitter photo posted by NYPD.)

Cardi B: Court-ordered service ‘the best thing’ to happen

by Michael R. Sisak Associated Press

NEW YORK – Grammy-winning rapper Cardi B spoke to girls in a police mentorship program last Friday as part of what she says has been an eye-opening and emotional week performing court-mandated community service for her role in a pair of brawls at New York City strip clubs in 2018.

The 30-year-old “Bodak Yellow” singer visited an NYPD “Girls Talk” event at the police training academy in Queens and shared what the department said was “her rags to riches story.” She danced with teens and posed for photos.

Cardi B’s plea deal required her to perform 15 days of community service by March 1 to avoid a 15-day jail sentence.

“I feel like there’s so many people that make y’all probably feel like, ‘This is what’s cool, this is what’s going on, this is what it takes to be lit, this is what it takes to be fire,’” Cardi B told her young audience.

“Sometimes that’s a little bit of peer pressure like on a girl. Don’t fall into that.

You know what I’m saying? Like, be great.

Be you. You’re amazing. You’re dope yourself.”

The NYPD posted a video to Twitter showing highlights of the event.

That drew criticism from some people, including a retired police lieutenant, who questioned whether Cardi B was an appropriate role model for children given her sometimes provocative lyrics, criminal record and past admission that she drugged and robbed men while working as a stripper before she got famous.

Cardi B, a New York City native whose real name is Belcalis Almanzar, chronicled her community service on Twitter all week.

On Saturday, she wrote: “Community service has been the best thing that has happened to me.”

She likened the experience to a spiritual journey that sometimes left her in tears.

“Those people that we leave behind they just need somebody to talk and a lil push and YOU might be able to change their life forever,” she wrote.

In another post, on her way to the po-

My brains are burning from waking up early, community service then studio….but I did the crime “I only have myself to blame” – Cardi B, Twitter

Cardi B, a New York City native whose real name is Belcalis Almanzar, chronicled her community service on Twitter, posting at one point that, “Community service has been the best thing that has happened to me.”

(Cardi B, Twitter) lice academy, the multiple-platinum selling artist and mother of two complained about waking up early to perform community service before going to the recording studio, but added: “I did the crime ‘I only have myself to blame’.”

Cardi B agreed in September to a conditional discharge just as her case was about to go to trial. She pleaded guilty to two misdemeanor charges stemming from the

August 2018 fights. Ten other counts, including two felonies, were dismissed. Two co-defendants also pleaded guilty.

In a statement at the time, Cardi B said: “Part of growing up and maturing is being accountable for your actions. As a mother, it’s a practice that I am trying to instill in my children, but the example starts with me. I’ve made some bad decisions in my past that I am not afraid to face and own

up to. These moments don’t define me and they are not reflective of who I am now.”

According to prosecutors, Cardi B and her entourage were targeting employees of Angels Strip Club in Flushing, Queens, over an apparent personal dispute. In one fight, chairs, bottles and hookah pipes were thrown as the group argued with a bartender. She and another employee had minor injuries.

In 2019, Cardi B rejected a plea deal that would have given her a conditional discharge. Prosecutors then presented the case to a grand jury and obtained an indictment that included the two felony charges.

NYPD Chief of Training Juanita Holmes created the “Girls Talk” program to build trust and foster mentorships between police officers and girls, with occasional special guests. Ballet dancer Misty Copeland spoke to the group at police headquarters in December 2021.

Cardi B’s chart-topping hits include “I Like It” and the Maroon 5 collaboration “Girls Like You.”

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The New Tri-State Defender

March 2 - 8, 2023

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RELIGION

Black Heritage Sunday...

Juvenile Court Judge Tarik Sugarmon was the keynote speaker during Black Heritage Sunday at Mt. Moriah East, where the Rev. Dr. Melvin Charles Smith is the host pastor. (Photos: Tyrone P. Easley/The New Tri-State Defender)

Black Vendors Expo…

Celebrating 20 years…

St. Mark Baptist Church a Black Vendors Expo held in their gym. (Photos: Tyrone P. Easley/The New Tri-State Defender)

Tabernacle of Praise Pastor Derrick Davis and his wife, Glenda Davis, were center stage for the pastoral anniversary noting 20 years of service. (Photos: Tyrone P. Easley/The New TriState Defender)

Loved for 100 years …

Josephine Smith Hicks celebrated her 100th birthday among family and friends at Greater Imani Christian Center on Feb. 25. She was born in Tipton County on Feb. 22, 1923. (Photos: Tyrone P. Easley/The New TriState Defender)

The New Tri-State Defender, March 2 - 8, 2023, Page 6

‘Visible Portraits of Light’ exhibit spotlights 12 area pastors as artist plows new ground

by Dr. Sybil C. Mitchell

Special to The New Tri-State Defender

The likenesses of 12 Memphis-area pastors are the focal points in “Visible Portraits of Light,” an exhibit reflecting the collaborative effort of Memphis artist Larry Walker and B. Visible Magazine.

An Opening Exhibit & Unveiling Reception hosted the honorees and their guests on Sunday (Feb. 26) afternoon, where the pastors saw their portraits for the first time.

An appreciative audience applauded and cheered as each canvas was unveiled.

“This is our first such event,” said Walker. “I chose the number 12, like the disciples. I initially came out and took photos of each pastor and worked from the photos to get the lighting and shadow just the way I needed.

“But for the intricate detail, I had each one come and sit for half an hour. Only one did not come and sit.

Probably, no one will notice that one, but the eye of a trained artist can look and tell exactly which one it is.”

Photos of the honorees headlined the cover of the latest installment of B. Visible, and featured expositions from each recalling their beginning in the ministry: When I Knew God Called Me. With this self-styled, self-ordained exhibit, Walker is moving into a new phase of his career. Rather than submit endless inquiries to galleries to exhibit his work, Walker selected Top of the Line Banquet Hall in Hickory Hill and staged his own unveiling and exhibit.

The artist bills himself as “The Amazing Mr. Walker.”

Walker is publisher of the magazine and his wife, Sharonda Walker, is editor-in-chief.

In a profession where honors sometime are bestowed few and far between, the pastors were grateful to have been chosen and all expressed delight with their portraits.

“Heretofore, I had not been a fan of pastoral portraiture,” said Dr. Kenneth T. Whalum, pastor of The New Olivet Baptist Church in Woodland Hills.

“There’s something morbid (I know, unreasonable, right?) about walking into the foyer of a church, and seeing the pastor’s likeness, especially before he is dead! But meeting and listening to the artist … convinced me that his gift deserves to be shared.

“And when my 6-month-old grandson stared at the painting as though he thought it was actually me, I was convinced the finished product was worth it.”

The exhibit ended on Monday, Feb. 27.

Walker said pastors will receive their portrait as a gift.

“One pastor came to sit for me and asked how much the portrait was going to cost,” said Walker. “Well, the portraits will be given to each pastor, a gift from me. It’s like God gifted me with a paint set, right? Well, with the gift God has given me, is it not my right to gift them.”

Dr. Bartholomew Orr, senior pastor of Brown Missionary Baptist Church in Southaven, appreciated taking part of the inaugural event.

“Being part of a historic event especially during Black History month, was so special to me,” said Orr. “And the fact that the community chose the pastors to be honored made it even sweeter. I’m humbled and grateful to Larry Walker for his generosity.

Larry and Sharonda are, certainly, a blessing to the community.”

Walker also held an art contest for students in middle and high school.

Four winners were selected from high school entries, and three artists were awarded in the middle school category.

“It’s all a part of encouraging young artists,” said Walker. “The

Pastor Dr. J. Lawrence Turner

Pastor Walter Green

Pastor Dr. Bartholomew Orr

Memphis artist Larry Walker at work on the portrait of Pastor Myron Donald.

Pastor Keith Norman

Pastor Dorothy Jones

Apostle Perry Maples

Pastor John Wallace

Pastor Orlester Johnson

Pastor Kenneth T. Whalum Jr.

Pastor Marquis G. McPherson Sr.

Best Visible Portraits Art Contest will always be announced at this annual event. I remember when I won my first honor.”

Walker continued, “I was in the ninth grade, and our teacher said everyone who entered this art contest making bookmarks would receive a letter grade higher.

“That would mean I could get a “B.” That’s why I participated, and I ended up winning third place. When my name was announced, I just went deaf, walking to the front for my prize.

I didn’t hear anything else. I just knew that my art had won a prize. That first time winning changed everything.”

Walker added it was important to

Pastor Melvin Jones announce the young winners, not in a “place,” but as equally talented, equally chosen winners. All young artists received the same reward, a $200 prize.

More self-appointed exhibitions can be expected from Walker.

“I’m not just an artist,” said Walker. “I am a master artist. For any apprenticeship, 10,000 hours makes one a master. That’s what I am. I’m ready

to claim it, own it, and truly share my God-given gift with the world.”

In addition to Whalum and Orr, also honored were: Pastor Myron Donald, Greater Lewis Street Baptist Church; Dr. Walter Green, Friendship Baptist Church; Dr. Orlester Johnson, Greater Faith Tabernacle, and Pastor Melvin Jones, Victory in Christ Christian Church.

Also, Apostle Perry Maples, Apostolic Deliverance Temple; Pastor Marquis M. McPherson, New Birth Missionary Baptist Church; Pastor Keith Norman, First Baptist ChurchBroad Street; Pastor Dorothy Jones, New Faith Bible Church; Dr. J. Lawrence Turner, Mississippi Boulevard Christian Church, and Pastor John Wallace Jr., Shiloh Missionary Baptist Church.

The New Tri-State Defender

March 2 - 8, 2023

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ENTERTAINMENT

Memphis-based hip-hop queen GloRilla among Memphis in May highlights TSD Newsroom After a four-year absence, the Memphis in May Beale Street Music Festival returns to Tom Lee Park in Downtown Memphis with the 2023 lineup announced this week.

This year’s edition of the Beale Street Music Festival is set for May 5-7, with a lineup including R&B, hip hop, reggae, the blues, rock, pop, alternative, indie, folk and country.

The diverse line-up is filled with highlights, including chart-topping hometown hip-hop queen GloRilla, Blues guitarist extraordinaire Gary Clark Jr., reggae icon Ziggy Marley, Nightly headliners include Earth Wind & Fire, The Lumineers, Greta Van Fleet, Robert Plant & Alison Krauss, HARDY, Jazmine Sullivan, The Roots, AJR and 311.

“Music just sounds better in Memphis, and there’s nothing like experiencing the Beale Street Music Festival in its home in Tom Lee Park next to the Mississippi River with the Memphis skyline and lighted bridges as the backdrop,” said 2023 Board Chairwoman Leigh Shockey. “We are so pleased to return the festival to its long-term home downtown on the riverfront at the foot of historic Beale Street.”

GloRilla (last September) makes her way into the auditorium at MLK College Prep High School, where she attended. (Photo: Gary S. Whitlow/GSW Enterprises/The New Tri-State Defender) The lineup also includes Cameo, Dru Hill the indie rock of Young the Giant, classic rockers Live, PJ Morton, The Struts, Gov’t Mule, mike, Andy Grammer, Yola,Toadies, Lucinda Williams, Living Colour, White Reaper, Shovels & Rope, Marcy Playground, Phony Ppl, Low Cut Connie, Beach Weather, Myron Elkins, Mac Saturn and more.

“This year’s lineup reflects the broad musical tastes of our festival goers with a diverse lineup of some of today’s hottest artists as well past festival favorites and stars of tomorrow” said James L. Holt, president & CEO. “At the Beale Street Music Festival, we endeavor to offer something for almost every musical taste, and we have a few more

surprise additions to come.”

Memphis area talent is well represented at the festival with red hot Hip-Hop stars Finesse2Tymes and Big Boogie making their BSMF debut and legendary soul stars The Bar-Kays returning to the BSMF stage.

Memphis area talent appearing in 2023 includes Jason D. Williams, Dirty Streets, Tyke T,

Sleep Theory, The Sensational Barnes Brothers and breakout Mille Manny.

The iconic Blues Tent, a popular mainstay of the Beale Street Music Festival, will be presented in Handy Park in the Beale Street Historic District as the Memphis Tourism “Blues Stage on Beale” featuring headliners such as Los Lobos, Keb Mo and the North Mississippi Allstars.

And trending Blues talent including Ana Popavic, Bernard Allison, Colin James, Cedric Burnside, Selwyn Birchwood, Blind Mississippi Morris, Ghost Town Blues Band, Mr. Sipp, Reba Russell Band, Will Tucker, Rodd Bland Members Only Band, Mark Muleman Massey and Ollie Moore. The stage will be offered free of charge to local Memphians to experience the festival and the musical genre born in the Bluff City.

All BSMF pass holders will enjoy a reserved section in Handy Park. The Blues Stage is supported in part by Downtown Memphis Commission, Xfinity and Stinson’s Industrial.

For full lineup and information, visit www.memphisinmay. org/bsmf. Tickets are available at www.memphisinmay.org/bsmftickets.

Beale Street Music Festival is presented by Bud Light, VW, ZYN, and Memphis Tourism.

COMMUNITY The New Tri-State Defender, March 2 - 8, 2023, Page 8

Ken Moody makes move from city government to the U of M

by Dr. Sybil C. Mitchell

Special to The New Tri-State Defender

Ken Moody’s 20-year tenure in Memphis city government ends Friday (March 3) as he exits City Hall to take on a new role at the University of Memphis.

Moody, special assistant to Mayor Jim Strickland for most of the last eight years, is set to become director of Local Relations and Partnerships at the U of M. “When you consider the history, that there was a time when Black students weren’t even allowed to attend and then look at what’s happening today, I believe it is a significant moment,” Moody said.

Moody said the fact that he was a U o M athlete, who will become “one of the faces of the university” is remarkable.

“No other athlete has returned to

“There are two things that people in Memphis need to lift them out of poverty — a strong faith in God and a good quality education.”

— Ken Moody play the kind of role I will be playing, and U of M is putting its commitment to diversity on the front line,” said Moody. “I have learned so many lessons, working in city government.

So many challenges have caused me to grow and learn — even my run for county mayor.”

(Moody unsuccessfully challenged incumbent Shelby County Mayor Lee Harris in the May 2022 Democratic primary election for county mayor.

Harris was re-elected in the August 2022 county general election.)

Strickland received Moody’s letter of resignation 10 months before his tenure as mayor ends. A statement from Strickland’s office called

Moody a “long-time public servant who has made “significant contributions during his tenure and helped transform many lives” in Memphis.

“Ken has been an invaluable member of our senior leadership team,” Strickland said. “…By creating and operating our second chance and opportunity youth programs, he has assisted many people with turning their lives around…He has become a close friend, and I am happy that he will devote the next chapter in his life to our mutual beloved alma mater.”

Moody said his work in city government has revealed some important truths about what our city needs to keep moving forward.

“There are two things that people in Memphis need to lift them out of poverty — a strong faith in God and a good quality education,” said Moody.

He continued, “There are the ‘haves’ and the ‘have nots.’ There is a wide chasm, but really, we all want the same things for our children — to live in communities where we feel safe, and a good education. We are not really all that different. Racially, and socio-economically, we must keep working toward being one Memphis.”

Moody was director of public services and neighborhoods for Dr. Willie Herenton, who became the city’s longest-serving mayor and first African American elected to the office in 1991.

Moody, a Carver High School graduate, was vocal about his faith throughout his tenure and credits the hard work of his mother for teaching him valuable life lessons through her

Ken Moody example. She raised 11 children as a single mother, Moody said.

Moody’s career in city government was good. He leaves with no regrets.

He feels fully prepared to take on the challenges of his new post.

“It was good, all of it, even my run for county mayor,” said Moody. “I felt that the incumbent administration was inaccessible, unresponsive, and unaccountable. I believe that challenging the county mayor on those points caused his administration to improve on serving better in those areas.”

Moody begins his new job on Mar. 6.

Closing out Black History Month...

Newly Elected State Rep. Justin Pearson (District 86) was the featured speaker as the University of Memphis closed out Black History Month activities. (Photos: Tyrone P. Easley/The New Tri-State Defender)

Black Developers Housing Summit Comes to Memphis to Educate & Empower TSD Newsroom “Shifting the Paradigm Through Equity and Access” will be the theme as the Black Coalition for Housing hosts the 2023 Black Developers Housing Summit in Memphis March 9-11.

The summit is open to prepared and skilled real estate developers, who are ready to access opportunities that address housing and development challenges in Black and minority communities. It is set for the Hilton Hotel located at 939 Ridge Lake Blvd.

Rasheedah Jones, the Tennessee

managing director for the Black Coalition for Housing, worked to bring the summit to her hometown after seeing the disproportionate number of peoRasheedah ple of color in Jones the development industry.

“We cannot continue to wait for others to bring forward solutions that help our communities, we must be at the table and

“We cannot continue to wait for others to bring forward solutions that help our communities, we must be at the table and be prepared to be the solution we need.”

— Rasheedah Jones be prepared to be the solution we need,” said Jones.

“More often than not development in communities of color results in gentrification that pushes the individuals already living there out with exorbitant pricing which changes the face of the community all for economic gain. Our people deserve better.”

The 2023 Black Developers Housing Summit seeks to synergize black and minority developers at every stage of their real estate development business journey. It will offer collective technical support, education, and the sharing of lived experience to scale, grow and expose others to the next level.

Information and resources also will

be presented to “bring forward solutions that restore communities, allow residents to engage in the rehabilitation of their own neighborhoods, and support development that ultimately bridges the wealth gap.” Topics to be addressed include foundations of development, resources, feasibility and understanding capital stack, and community partnerships, and more will be addressed.

Sponsorships for the 2023 Black Developers Housing Summit are still available. For more information and to register, visit www.blackhousingsummit.com.

The New Tri-State Defender

March 2 - 8, 2023

Page 9

NEWS

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Gov. Bill Lee vows to sign anti-drag bill as photo surfaces

by Kimberlee Kruesi Associated Press

NASHVILLE – Gov. Bill Lee says it would be “ridiculous” to conflate a recently surfaced yearbook photo of him wearing women’s clothing in high school to drag show performances currently under attack in Tennessee and other GOP-led states.

Lee told reporters this week that he plans to sign legislation that would severely limit where drag performances can take place by banning “adult cabaret entertainment” that is “harmful to minors” from public property or locations

where children might see the performance.

The bill does not explicitly include the words “drag show,” but it does expand the definition of adult cabaret to include “male or female impersonators,” as well as topless dancers, go-go dancers, exotic dancers and strippers.

On Monday, Lee was fielding questions from reporters about the legislation and other anti-LGBTQ bills when an activist asked him if he remembered “dressing up in drag in 1977.”

Lee was presented with a photo that showed the governor as a high school senior

dressed in women’s clothing that was published in the Franklin High School 1977 yearbook. The photo was first posted on Reddit over the weekend.

“What a ridiculous question that is,” said Lee, who was visibly angry. “Conflating something like that to sexualized entertainment in front of children, which is a very serious question.”

When asked specific examples of inappropriate drag shows taking place in front of children, Lee pointed to the school building close to where he was talking to reporters.

“I think the concern is right

there in that building,” Lee said. “Children that are potentially exposed to sexualized entertainment, to obscenity, and we need to make sure that they’re not.”

This is now the second time a yearbook photo of Lee has sparked controversy. In 2018, Lee said he regretted wearing a Confederate uniform during an “Old South” party after confirming there was a photo of him doing so in Auburn University’s 1980 yearbook.

Meanwhile, Lee also confirmed that he plans on signing legislation banning most gender-affirming care for transgender youth.

The GOP-dominated Statehouse finished advancing the legislation last week, where it’s headed to Lee’s desk. The anti-drag show bill is expected to clear the Legislature this week.

Drag does not typically involve nudity or stripping, which are more common in burlesque, a separate form of entertainment. Explicitly sexual and profane language is common in performances meant for adult audiences.

These routines can consist of stand-up comedy that may be raunchy — or may pale in comparison with some mainstream comedians.

Mississippi enacts ban on gender-affirming care for minors

by Emily Wagster Pettus Associated Press

JACKSON, Miss. – Mississippi Republican Gov. Tate Reeves signed a bill Tuesday to ban gender-affirming hormones or surgery in the state for anyone younger than 18, part of a broad effort in conservative states to restrict transgender athletes, genderaffirming care and drag shows.

Reeves, who is running for reelection this year, said “radical activists” are telling children they are in the wrong bodies and are “just a surgery away from happiness.”

“This is truly scary stuff that’s being pushed upon our kids and, yes, their loving parents,” Reeves said.

“They’re being taken advantage of, all so some can push their warped view on gender or appear to be ‘woke’ for their friends.”

The new Mississippi law took effect immediately. In 2021, Reeves signed a law to ban transgender athletes from competing in girls’ or women’s sports teams.

The Republican governors of South Dakota and Utah have signed bans on gender-affirming care this year, and the Republican governor of Tennessee is expected to do so. Judges have temporarily blocked similar laws in Arkansas and Alabama.

Reeves signed the Mississippi bill into law less than two weeks after transgender teenagers, their families and others who support them protested against the measure.

Across the U.S. this year, at least 150 bills targeting transgender people have been introduced, which is the highest in a single year, according to the Human Rights Campaign.

Mickie Stratos — who is president of The Spectrum Center of Hattiesburg, Mis-

sissippi, which provides health services and advocacy for LGBTQ people — said Reeves’ decision to sign the bill “is an act of violence.”

“He and the lawmakers who pushed this bill in Mississippi are willfully ignoring the unique needs of transgender young people, interfering with their medical care and sending a stigmatizing, exclusionary message,” Stratos said in a statement Tuesday.

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SPORTS The New Tri-State Defender, March 2 - 8, 2023, Page 10

‘I wished I played with these dudes forever’ Kendric Davis paces Tigers past Bearcats

by Terry Davis

Special to The New Tri-State Defender

When pursuing a dream in the game of basketball moments come when the end is nearer than the beginning and the reality of the journey causes the dreamer to reflect. Such was the case for the Tigers’ Kendric Davis after Memphis held off the Cincinnati Bearcats 76-73 at FedExForum on Sunday afternoon.

Davis, the reigning American Athletic Conference (AAC) Most Valuable Player when he transferred to Memphis for the 2022-23 season, signed on with the Tigers wanting to play in the NCAA post-season tournament. As he has done all season, Davis came up big (22 points), helping Memphis hold off Cincinnati’s determined comeback bid and inching forward toward inclusion in the NCAA field.

“It means a lot,” said Davis, answering a question about getting a step closer to his NCAA goal.

“Coach (Penny Hardaway) texted me this morning and said he promised me an NCAA appearance. I have not texted him back yet, because I was so anxious.

“I appreciate coach because we are close to making my dream come true.”

With the win, the Tigers (22-7, 12-4 AAC) will be seeded no lower than third in the upcoming AAC tournament in Fort Worth. Houston, the No. 1-ranked team in the country, has locked up the AAC regular-season title and the conference’s top seed in the post-season tournament.

Memphis is ahead of Tulane (10-5 AAC) in the conference race but has lost twice to the Green Wave. The Tigers end their season with a rematch against Houston after a round trip to play the SMU Mustangs in Dallas on

Thursday.

The Tigers hosted Cincinnati on 901 Day suited in their blue Memphis State University throwback jerseys and with 12,211 fans eaTerry ger for a win.

Davis With the victory, Hardaway notched his 22nd win of the season, matching his career-high as a coach.

While the number of wins is important, Hardaway said, “I am always trying to push for the NCAAs. I never take in what I am doing individually. It has been the players that have gotten me there. This year I thank the players for what I teach and turns into wins. I am thankful for that.”

The Tigers got off to a strong start against the Bearcats, leading 31-16 with under eight minutes to play in the first half. During one of their best offensive halves of the season, they only committed two turnovers. At the halftime break, Memphis led 41-30.

“We were playing freely,” said Hardaway. Alo (Alex Lomax) and KD (Kendric Davis) were controlling the flow. We got took high-percentage shots. For us, it was a monster game, because that is how we approached it. We did not end it the way we wanted to.”

Former Memphis guard Landers Nolley II, who starts for the Bearcats, was kept in check in the first half by the Tigers’ defense. He committed four turnovers and only had two points in the first half.

Nolley and the Bearcats were much more effective in the second half. He finished with 13 points and 6 rebounds. David DeJulius led Cin-

Kendric Davis has made the most of his one year at the U of M. (Photos: Warren Roseborough/The New Tri-State Defender)

DeAndre Williams scored 21 points and may have saved the game with a block at the end. cinnati with 16 points, 6 rebounds and 6 assists. Cincinnati, which has lost several close games over the last three weeks, outrebounded the Tigers (39-29), which was a major factor in the Bearcats pulling within range of snatching the victory away from the Tigers. Cincinnati also connected on 10 three-pointers.

With Cincinnati threatening to turn

their rally into a win, DeAndre Williams (21 points, 7 rebounds) came up with a big block in the paint at the end of the game.

“He had another good game,” said Hardaway. “He did not have many shots in the second half. I want him to play with freedom. DeAndre had a 21-point game and he did not shoot any free throws today.”

Williams said the Tigers still can “definitely be better. We haven’t put a full 40 minutes together yet. … We have to continue to grow from our mistakes and get better.”

Playing without Keonte Kennedy, who will miss the rest of the season with a broken hand, Memphis benefitted from the contributions of Elijah McCadden (eight points) and Damaria Franklin (nine points). Kennedy will miss the rest of the regular season after slamming a wall in frustration after the loss to Houston and breaking his hand. Johnathan Lawson, who continues to carve out a role for himself, connected on a big three-pointer in the second half.

In Dallas on Thursday, the Tigers will face an SMU that has been playing better of late. That game and the following against Houston will be emotion-testers for Davis, who starred at SMU before transferring to Memphis. Houston is his hometown.

“My last two games couldn’t be more emotional,” said Davis. “My energy is on 10. It is sad I only got one year here. I wished I played with these dudes forever. It is coming to an end and I am going to miss it.”

NOTE: SMU game is set for Thursday at 8 p.m. CST on ESPN 2.

Memphis will close the regular season at home against Houston on Sunday (March 5), with tipoff set for 11 p.m. on CBS.

Rulers of their home court, Grizzlies take care of the Lakers

by Terry Davis

Special to The New Tri-State Defender

Ja Morant raised the bar on his oncourt stardom with a franchise-record 28 points in the third quarter as the Memphis Grizzlies turned back the LeBron James-less Lakers 121-109 at a sold-old FedExForum on Tuesday night.

Morant’s All-Star teammate Jaren Jackson Jr. held the previous record (26 points) for a quarter.

“We just have to keep it up and be more consistent, more disciplined, being locked in,” said Morant after the Memphis win. “When we play like that, we know we’re a very good team and a hard team to beat, clicking on all cylinders on both ends of the floor. That’s what we need.”

Morant was spectacular with a 39-point triple-double (10 assists, 10 rebounds). It was his sixth triple-double of the season.

“Getting the win. I feel like that’s the most important thing,” said Morant. “My teammates were getting on me for not getting 40 (points), but I really didn’t care about it too much. I was just trying to win the basketball game.”

James, now the NBA’s all-time scorer did not suit up for the game.

He injured an ankle in the Lakers’ last game on Sunday in Dallas.

The Grizzlies (37-23) now have 26 wins at FedExForum. They are holding onto second place in the Western

Conference and moving closer to clinching a playoff spot.

Memphis head coach Taylor Jenkins was pleased with the team’s energy and mentality against the Lakers.

“Now we’re about to go on the road and we’ve got to take on just a harder mentality, swag, trust, discipline, belief, each and every day.

I’m just really proud of the effort that we’ve shown the last three games.

Obviously, we got two wins, two at home. But the real test is on the road and our guys understand that.”

Memphis has a sub .500 (11-18) record on the road this season, with a four-game road test set to begin Wednesday night against a scrappy Rockets team in Houston. Then comes Denver and games against the Clippers and Lakers in Los Angeles.

“I’m just proud of our fight,” said Jenkins. “Our defense always gives us a chance to win. Once we get our offense clicking in the half-court knocking down some shots, then we can have some really good nights.”

Memphis led the Lakers 26-22 at the end of the first quarter, with Luke Kennard hitting a quarter-ending three-pointer. As the ball went through the basket the crowd cheered “LUUUUUUUKKKKKKE!” The Grizzlies got a little sloppy to end the first half and the Lakers surged ahead (49-46) as the Grizzlies only had 20 points in the second quarter.

Ja Morant was unstoppable in the second half against the Lakers.

(Photo: Warren Roseborough/The New Tri-State Defender) After the break, the Grizzlies, par-

phis outscored LA 47-35 in the third

ticularly Morant, caught fire. Mem-

quarter and led 93-84 going into the

final quarter. The Lakers got no closer than six points the rest of the way as the Grizzlies matched LA’s energy.

“I think the biggest thing is just our ability to adapt at halftime, to get on the same page,” said Jenkins. “We have our game plan going into the first half. We use our timeouts and the first quarter break is kind of to read and feel out the game. You obviously want to have a really good feel from possession one, but that’s not always the case.

“Teams are going to present different challenges as the game goes on.

Our offense wasn’t really clicking.

Our defense was pretty good outside of second-chance points and the freethrow line. Sometimes it’s a defensive emphasis at halftime, it’s offense (or) it’s both.”

Jackson delivered a monster, lefthand put-back dunk that wowed the crowd and was the No. 1 Play of the Day of ESPN’s Sportscenter. Jackson finished with 16 points and 7 rebounds.

Xavier Tillman, who has been starting since the injury to center Steven Adams, continued what some say is the best stretch of his professional career. He finished with 18 points and 11 rebounds and had to defend Anthony Davis, who had 28 points and 19 rebounds in a losing effort.

“I am having fun just enjoying every moment,” said Tillman. “I am not thinking too deep about it. It has been fun.”